Kenya and China are enhancing their partnership in media development to foster economic empowerment and information exchange. Key initiatives will emphasize technological upgrades and capacity building in the media sector. The collaboration signifies a strategic move to improve media reporting and strengthen bilateral relations.
Kenya and China have initiated discussions aimed at enhancing their bilateral partnerships within the media sector. Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, emphasized that this collaboration should promote economic empowerment and facilitate the exchange of information and knowledge between the two nations. The Kenyan government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation (BETA) agenda focuses on five key areas: Agricultural Transformation, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Housing and Settlement, Healthcare, and a Digital Superhighway along with a Creative Economy.
During a meeting with Zhang Zhizhong, the Deputy Chief of Mission of China to Kenya, and other officials, Prof. Kisiang’ani highlighted the need for a more advanced approach in media reporting, urging media practitioners to contribute to the countries’ economic and social transformation. He said, “China and Kenya both have a lot to share, be it on cultural diversity or modern technologies in media, such as Artificial Intelligence.”
The PS further described media collaboration as crucial for exchanging ideas that can be disseminated through television and the internet. He acknowledged China’s substantial investments in Kenya, particularly in media, and noted that capacity building and infrastructure upgrades are necessary for entities like the Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).
Prof. Kisiang’ani pointed out that improved technological setups are essential for quality news delivery and that support should extend beyond human resources to include acquiring suitable equipment in an evolving technological landscape. He stressed the importance of addressing equipment challenges, particularly in managing artificial intelligence to enhance news processing and verification efficiency.
The Directorate of Information needs capacity development as it transitions from traditional methods of news writing to modern, digital platforms. The proposed partnership will emphasize training, equipment provision, and advanced tools. Minister Counsellor Zhang Zhizhong stated that media cooperation is vital to strengthen mutual understanding between Kenya and China, highlighting Kenya’s emergence as an economic power with significant collaborative potential.
Zhizhong further mentioned that joint reporting initiatives focusing on shared interests like climate change and cultural diplomacy would enhance the bilateral relationship. KBC CEO Agnes Kalekye noted that equipment upgrades are a priority, mentioning active proposals with Xinhua and China Media Group for technology transfer. She believes that the collaboration will help leapfrog KBC into the digital age, facilitated by China’s willingness to partner equitably in this transformation.
Kenya and China’s diplomatic relations were first established in 1963, briefly suspended in 1967, but officially re-established in 1978.
The partnership between Kenya and China in media development is poised to foster economic empowerment and improve information sharing. With a focus on capacity building, technological upgrades, and equipment provision, the collaboration aims to elevate the media sector in both countries. This relationship is expected to enhance mutual understanding and establish a stronger connection between the peoples of Kenya and China through shared media initiatives.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
